What’s the city’s policy on loose trash?

What is the policy on garbage that falls outside of the trash carts when they are being dumped?

The question

When the garbage crews miss the trucks, trash blows around for three blocks. We have a nice city, and it needs to remain nice. I am proud of our town. This is ridiculous.

— Jason

What is the policy on garbage that falls outside of the trash carts when they are being dumped?

The answer

James Cook, operations manager for the McPherson Area Solid Waste Utility, said garbage crews make a habit of getting every bag possible.

“We try to pick everything up,” he said. “Especially when the wind’s blowing, our crews should be getting everything.”

If excess bags lying outside of the carts by the owner becomes a habitual problem, however, then Cook said McPherson Area Solid Waste Utility will get in contact with the owner and have the resident pay for another cart.

Cook said the process is tied to the automation of the truck’s machinery, and crews try not to get out of the truck as much as possible.

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